Tyson Fury has praised his bitter rivals Oleksandr Usyk and the Klitschko brothers, as well as Vasily Lomachenko, for taking up arms and joining Ukrainian forces in the fight against Russian patrols.
Since Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on February 24, Ukraine's interior ministry has confirmed that 352 civilians have been killed - however, the official total is believed to be 'significantly higher'. The death toll includes 14 children, while more than 1600 more people have been wounded.
Boxing brothers Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko immediately vowed to join in military combat to protect their country, with both Usyk and Lomachenko now joining to take up arms in the battle against the Russian forces.
ALSO READ: Tyson Fury vs Dillian Whyte ticket prices confirmed for Wembley fight
The Russian push remains ongoing, however, with Putin's latest action being to put his nuclear power on high alert, and Ukraine has called for help in fending off the invasion. Ukrainian men have been prevented from crossing the border, instead required to sign-up to defend the country - and Usyk is one of the latest to answer the call.
The world heavyweight champion confirmed a few days ago that he had returned to his homeland to take up arms, alongside the Klitschhko's, with Fury putting his rivalry aside with them to praise them for doing so.
Fury, speaking at a press conference ahead of his title defence against Dillian Whyte, said: "Fantastic, you know. I would be the first one to join if England get involved, or America. I would be first in line for the job - my dad would as well, and all the boys - we all would sign up to defend.
"That's all I have to say. I think if you are from that country and you are living there, defend her. Love your woman and fight for your country - that is what I say."
Usyk had been in Sheffield last week to promote the upcoming boxing game eSports Boxing Club when Putin launched his military assault after years of political tension between the two countries.
Catch up on all the latest Gypsy King headlines with our Tyson Fury section.
